Australia has provided books and literacy resources to Iobuna Kouba Primary School in Hiri-Koiari District, Central Province, to support students’ reading and learning.

The donation, made on World Teachers’ Day, includes Bilum Books and other reading aids to replace heavily used resources as student enrolments and classroom demand increase.

Head Teacher Joseph Buka welcomed the support, saying the books have helped improve students’ reading, speaking, listening and writing skills.

He said students enjoy using the Bilum Books because the English is appropriate for their learning level.

“With these books, kids are learning to read. They are learning to comprehend. It gives them courage to speak, to understand the world around them to make decisions in life,” Mr Buka said.

Grade One teacher Maga Goma, who has taught at Iobuna for more than 30 years, said the donation would make a significant difference.

She said previously, as many as 10 or 11 students had to share one book, meaning only students who could read were able to use it effectively.

Australia says its education partnership with PNG continues through the 240-million-kina Partnership for Improving Education program, which supports foundational literacy and numeracy in schools and education systems.